5 Beginner Online Classes to Learn Data Science on Your Own Time

For a decade, Data Science has been a hot topic, but most of its concept was present theoretically. The practical application of Data Science became only possible after the existence of large data sets to work upon, effective machine learning algorithms, and systems to operate these algorithms.

Just like many other professionals today, you are probably fascinated by data. You may love finding patterns in numbers, predicting future outcomes, and using that knowledge to hit company goals.

The only problem is you are probably a beginner and completely clueless on where to begin learning about the huge field of data science. You may have heard the term being mentioned during your conversations with your peers – about how the data science role is pretty in-demand in the job market at the moment. This may have got you thinking if it is worth developing some data science skills in your pocket and resume to enhance your long-term career prospects.

If you are not ready to invest a significant amount of your resources, online classes are an excellent way to quickly start learning about the good stuff at your own pace, from technical skills like Python and SQL to basic data analytics and machine learning. That said, you may still need to invest a small amount to get access to some of the high-quality courses available.

In this article, we have outlined some of the highest rated and most popular free, short, and comprehensive courses you can take within the realm of data science—whether you’re looking for a serious deep dive or just a casual overview.

Want a general overview of Python and SQL (the 2 important programming languages used extensively in data science) before diving deeper into the field? Codecademy’s free courses are a great way to start learning the basics – at zero cost (free of charge).

This course will cover the absolute basics of Data Science and Machine learning and is split into 3 Modules. The first module takes a high-level view of the introduction and applications of Data Science. The course narrative will spend some time to walk you through different career areas in the Business Intelligence Stack, where does Data Science fit in, What is Data Science and what are the tools you will need to get started. The best part of the programme is that it assumes no prior knowledge in the area and will be utilizing Python and Scikit-Learn Package – making this package excellent for beginners.

In this introductory course, the “Backyard Data Scientist” will guide you through wilderness of Machine Learning for Data Science. Accessible to everyone, this introductory course not only explains Machine Learning, but where it fits in the “techno sphere around us”, why it’s important now, and how it will dramatically change our world today and for days to come.

This programme will teach you the skills you need to become just that. You’ll learn to manipulate data with SQL and Python, the foundational languages of data science and analytics. Along the way, you’ll also complete real-world projects like analyzing a sales funnel and building a Machine Learning powered recommendation engine.

This Specialization programme covers the concepts and tools you’ll need throughout the entire data science pipeline, from asking the right kinds of questions to making inferences and publishing results. In the final Capstone Project, you’ll apply the skills learned by building a data product using real-world data. At completion, students will have a portfolio demonstrating their mastery of the material.

Prospects is a professional development and networking company that helps top employers shape their workplace of the future through employer branding and access to millennial talent pipeline. Through ProspectsASEAN.com, we also empower young talents with quality career advice, helping them discover and embark on the right career path.

Many organisations around the world acknowledge chartered professionals as highly competent individuals who are dedicated to continuous professional development. Gaining a professional qualification not...

Prospects is a professional development and networking company that helps top employers shape their workplace of the future through employer branding and access to millennial talent pipeline.